THE wait was over for 3000 pupils from across North Ayrshire as they opened their exam results on Tuesday morning.

Early analysis of the results shows a very encouraging picture, highlighting the Council’s ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people in North Ayrshire.

Last year, there was a significant increase in the attainment of National 5 qualifications for S4 pupils. This level of achievement has been sustained for 2016, with our current S4 pupils broadly matching the best performances to date.

S5 pupils performed significantly better than in previous years and more of young people than ever before achieved Higher qualifications.

In S6, pupils’ achievements at Advanced Higher level also improved.
Further analysis will be undertaken in the coming weeks and months within and across Ayrshire schools and departments to establish the key highlights and areas for further focused improvement.

Councillor John Bruce, Cabinet Member for Education, Attainment and Achievement, said: “We would like to congratulate all of our young people who have shown a great deal of effort and commitment throughout the year to achieve the results they have received today. They should all be very proud of their efforts.

“It is also important to recognise the significant contribution that our teachers and staff have made as well as the support given by parents and carers.

“This year’s exam results are very positive and show that our schools are continuing to raise the bar as they strive towards excellence and equity for their learners. We are now determined to continue the good work and build on this success in the future.

“We know that waiting for exam results can often be a stressful time for our young people. However, they should remember that regardless of the outcome, a wide range of support is available to help them into future employment, education or training.”

Pupils looking for advice and support can call the dedicated Exam Results Helpline which has been set up by Skills Development Scotland (SDS).

The helpline - which is open between 8am and 8pm on 9 and 10 August, and from 9am and 5pm daily until August 17 – offers advice on college and university course vacancies, confirmation and clearing, and advice about Modern or Foundation Apprenticeships, employment or volunteering.

Calls are free on 0808 100 8000 (operator charges may apply).

Students can also access help, advice and support via SDS’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/SDSNorthAyrshire or through the SDS “MY World of Work” website: www.myworldofwork.co.uk/examresults.

In addition, all S4-S6 pupils will be given the opportunity, where necessary, to speak to a senior member of staff regarding their option choices when they return to school later this month.